What Are the Features of the Icon of the Seas?

Since its launch, the Icon of the Seas from Royal Caribbean has attracted much attention, mainly because of an elaborate marketing strategy that focused on family entertainment, excitement, and choice. The world’s largest cruise ship has not disappointed, turning out to be a family resort on the water with many activities for children, adults, and families.

List of Features Offered by Icon of the Seas

1. Accommodation and Capacity

Photo Courtesy: Royal Caribbean International

Icon of the Seas has the capacity to host 5,610 guests at double density and a maximum of 7,600 guests. This large vessel has many types of rooms, and more than three-quarters of them are for three or more persons, which will suit families.

2. Neighborhoods and Layout

Photo Courtesy: Royal Caribbean International

The concept of the ship is based on eight districts, which create a specific mood and have various facilities. Of these, five are new to Royal Caribbean, and they include AquaDome, Thrill Island, Chill Island, Surfside, and The Hideaway. This strategic design guarantees smooth transitions between the neighborhoods while at the same time providing unique experiences within the same.

As soon as guests step on board, they are welcomed by the Royal Promenade, an area that is both recognizable and renewed with The Pearl, a two-deck glass art piece. This magnificent piece is the first to create the atmosphere of the ship. The Royal Promenade is bathed in natural light and the energy of the tropics.

3. Entertainment and Activities

Photo Courtesy: Royal Caribbean International

Icon of the Seas offers a wide range of activities designed to appeal to all ages. Thrill-seekers will enjoy the six-slide waterpark, Category 6, located on Deck 16’s Thrill Island, which is the largest waterpark at sea. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, Chill Island offers serene poolside relaxation.

One of the ship's most notable features is the AquaDome, located on Deck 15. This glass dome houses the AquaTheater, where guests can enjoy the vertigo-inducing Aqua Show. The AquaDome also includes venues like Hooked Seafood, Celebration Table, AquaDome Marketplace, and the Overlook Pods hangout areas, providing a diverse array of dining and entertainment options.

4. Dining Options

Photo Courtesy: Royal Caribbean International

Icon of the Seas has over 40 restaurants and bars, and each neighborhood has at least one table-service restaurant, one quick-service restaurant, and one specialty restaurant. This wise distribution also means that guests do not need to go far from their neighborhood to get food and drinks, thus regulating crowds independently.

The Windjammer Marketplace is the best one, with the great buffet and the convenient organization of the space. Another feature is specialty dining, and some packages can be purchased to try out the for-fee restaurants.

5. Innovative Design and Technology

Photo Courtesy: Royal Caribbean International

The layout of the ship is not the only aspect that has been revolutionized; it is also the technological aspect of the ship. Icon of the Seas is the first vessel in the Royal Caribbean fleet designed to be operated using cleaner-burning liquefied natural gas (LNG), which is a positive sign for environmentally friendly cruising. It also has the multilevel kinetic art installation Sphere, which is located in the Royal Promenade and acts as a focal point.

6. Crowd Control and Convenience

Photo Courtesy: Royal Caribbean International

Icon of the Seas uses smart crowd control to improve the guest experience. Elevator banks are located forward, midship, and aft, and guests choose their deck before boarding. People are split between elevators, and there is no overcrowding. Although this can lead to longer waiting times for the elevator, it helps to avoid overloading the elevators. 

7. Family-Friendly Focus

Photo Courtesy: Royal Caribbean International

The family-oriented concept is also reflected in the ship's cabins and facilities. The Ultimate Family Townhouse is a three-story building with a slide from the top floor and costs $80,000 per week. Other cabins are large and have charging points and enough shelves, but they may be rather cramped for families during long journeys.

Icon of the Seas has many things to do for children. For example, the Surfside area on the seventh deck is designed for families with children. This outdoor area has facilities, such as an arcade, carousel, Splashaway Bay, and new dining places, such as Surfside Eatery, Pier 7, and Sugar Beach.

8. Entertainment and Amenities

Photo Courtesy: Royal Caribbean International

There are many entertainment facilities, such as the Royal Theater, Music Hall, Casino Royale, and the Absolute Zero for ice skating. The main dining room is located on decks 3-5 and provides various dining possibilities.

Some of the complimentary services are most of the theatre and AquaTheater shows, meals at the Windjammer Buffet, the Main Dining Room, some of the specialty restaurants, daily activities, the fitness center, and the Adventure Ocean Kids Club. However, tips, food from specialty restaurants, spa treatments, internet, and most of the tours and sightseeing are not included and are charged separately.

Conclusion

Icon of the Seas is a testament to Royal Caribbean’s commitment to innovation and guest satisfaction. With its expansive array of activities, thoughtful neighborhood layout, and family-friendly focus, it promises an unforgettable cruising experience. Despite its higher price tag, the ship’s unique features and comprehensive offerings make it a worthwhile investment for families and cruise enthusiasts seeking an unparalleled vacation at sea.

So, book your cruise now with CruiseBooking.com and make your journey memorable!